grade problem and I need to find a solution

[schluss]

maybe this helps (at least for inspiration....)http://www.google.de/search?q=gleiswendel+f%C3%BCr+lgb&hl=de&rls=com.microsoft:de:IE-SearchBox&biw=1280&bih=613&prmd=imvns&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=3MJEUMyNKsuRswbqrIGwDA&ved=0CEcQsAQ

[Rasputin]

maybe this helps (at least for inspiration....)http://www.google.de/search?q=gleiswendel+f%C3%BCr+lgb&hl=de&rls=com.microsoft:de:IE-SearchBox&biw=1280&bih=613&prmd=imvns&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=3MJEUMyNKsuRswbqrIGwDA&ved=0CEcQsAQ

ever seen one in G scale  it would work to save length. interesting solution. this would definitely qualify for a "science of imaginary solutions" award

[Tiermann]

I suppose a helix is one possibility. There is always the option of having it be display only and not in active use. You could leave the end unfinished and make it look like it's under construction or repair. Gives you an excuse for construction equipment as well.
Do you have the 4053 Work train?

[playmofire]

I know the problems, Ras, from the Knaresborough display in 2011.  I went for raising the whole layout (see here:

http://www.playmofriends.com/forum/index.php?topic=10598.0)

but there were no ships to get under the bridges, plus not setting up until the day before meant the scenery was very simple as it had to be done quickly.

Two layouts would be one idea, using the bridge as one at the back of the display and with the loco running end to end and reversing automatically.  It would have a 40ft run and so would look quite impressive.

[Rasputin]

I do want the train to actually run across the bridge. The bridge will move and sway as the train goes across and I was hoping over time the train will loosen all the sections of decking. Slowly over time the bridge will wobble looser and looser and may ................

[bonniebeth]

but then there is a hill all the way around the dio. 

What? No, I meant the hill at one end, and the valley stretching out in front of it.

[Giorginetto]

Wow i can see that bridge now...... wow wow wow, empire status material if you ask me 

[cowabounga]

Maybe the passengers could come out and push? 

[Giorginetto]

I do want the train to actually run across the bridge. The bridge will move and sway as the train goes across and I was hoping over time the train will loosen all the sections of decking. Slowly over time the bridge will wobble looser and looser and may ................

 

[cowabounga]

More seriously now. Ras, do you know for sure 4% is the steepest slope a train can run? Maybe the engine is powerful enough for a steeper slope? Maybe with less trailers to haul? Just my two cents.
A.